My Fab Fifties Life

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington

July 24, 2026

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Location: Ballard Washington

Only a few decades ago, sleepy Ballard was the butt of all Scandinavian jokes. A Seattle neighborhood of working class families descended from working class immigrants, Ballard was solid, if a bit rough around the edges. Times have changed and and here is one more Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington.

(This post was updated in July 2026)

Sleepy No More

I sure wish I had bought a house in Ballard back then. I’d be a millionaire today. Today, Ballard is hip. A cool place to be for young singles and families….without losing that solid working class vibe. Still home to much of the Seattle area fishing fleet, the history of fishing and shipbuilding runs deep in this community.

Shilshole Bay Ballard — View from Sunset Park

What a difference a few decades make. Ballard is blooming and is now not only home to the magnificent Nordic Heritage Museum (opened in 2018), it is also a culinary Mecca – home to dozens and dozens of highly rated restaurants, some difficult to get a reservation for. Ballard, sleepy no more. I love a lot of my home state, and Ballard is one of my favorite places among those.

One of the PNW Trolls at the Nordic Heritage Museum. Learn more about the Trolls here.

It’s Time to Rediscover Ballard, Washington

A day in Ballard is a pleasant idea….but even better why not a weekend or several days? There is so much to do here, without ever actually going into downtown Seattle. Beautiful Ballard. We want you to give it the time it deserves, so we share with you a wide variety of our favorite Ballard finds…everything from parks to beaches, coffee to fish, and hiking to vintage. Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington.

Our Recommendations to Get You Started

It’s a long, long list but we hope these recommendations will give you a variety of reasons to visit Ballard and it’s surrounding neighborhoods.

Where to Stay

If you can make your visit more than a day, we recommend the beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Ballard, The Hotel Ballard. It’s exceptional and will make your visit to Ballard exceptional. We have also stayed in a few Airbnb’s in Ballard, and our favorite of those is this darling Guest Suite in a quiet neighborhood.

Tiny but perfectly appointed with a nice outdoor space too. See the link for this
Ballard Airbnb Hideway

Let’s Eat!

It’s impossible to list all the delicious and innovative dining options in Ballard…so I am offering up a few of my old favs as well as some new to me options!

Stoneburner Restaurant Ballard — Stoneburner is my fav

Stoneburner – always popular and delicious,Stoneburner is a must when in Ballard. Reservations are definitely recommended.

Walrus and the Carpenter Ballard — Oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter

The Walrus and the Carpenter a long time standout in Seattle, and one of the best places for oysters and seafood. Great space too. Reservations are recommended.

Little Woody's Ballard — Salmon Burger from Lil Woody’s

Lil Woody’s – It’s not hard to find a good burger in Seattle, and locals flock to Dicks. But right here in Lil Ballard I would always choose Lil Woody’s.

El Moose – authentic, funky and delicious, a perfect menu of Mexican traditional food right in the heart of Ballard.

Mean Sandwich – this sandwich shop is so Ballard. Popular, delicious and a bit whacky you gotta come in and try a sandwich when in Ballard.

Frankie and Jos on a summer day can’t be beat

Frankie and Jos – is a plant based ice cream shop that uses coconut milk instead of dairy. And it is oh so delicious with unique and fun flavors.

Arashi Ramen – teeny little hole in the wall but worth the wait if it’s crowded for one of their delicious bowls of Ramen.

And More Food Options…

Biscuit and Bean – we recently discovered this delicious coffee and biscuit spot and it is a perfect lazy breakfast location or a quick coffee too.

Sabine Mediteranian We recently enjoyed a wonderful meal at Sabine for the first time. Lots of small plate options as well as flatbreads and entre plates. We will be back for sure.

Cafe Umbria – we just recently were introduced to Cafe Umbria by our son, this is his go-to coffee spot in Ballard. It’s easy to see why. Great coffee, service and ambiance.

Un Bien – messy and delicious you must try a sandwich from Un Bien. Two locations in Ballard.

Walk up order and outdoor seating at Un Bien

Get Outside

For such a compact neighborhood of Seattle, Ballard is blessed with an abundance of parks, and a visit to beautiful Ballard wouldn’t be complete without a visit to at least one of Ballard’s parks. This is a list of our favorites.

Discovery Park – definitely one of Seattle’s greatest treasures, a visit to Discovery Park is an absolute must.

Leif Erickson Statue Ballard — Leif Erickson and my own little Vikings at Shilshole Marina

Shilshole Marina – Nothing like the walk along the path near Shilshole on a summer day.

Golden Gardens – Dare I say this is Seattle’s favorite park? A very special spot no matter what time of year. Make a visit to Golden Gardens.

Going through the locks on my son’s sailboat

The Ballard Locks – this is one of the most fascinating places in Seattle, and always worth a visit. Going through the locks on a boat is cool, but it’s just as cool to enjoy it from the shore, and learn from the interpretive signage. Don’t miss it.

Lunch at Point Shilshole with a sandwich from Un Bien

Point Shilshole – often called Seattle’s prettiest beach, Point Shilshole is a bit of a hidden gems for getting in the water, watching birds, and enjoying the view.

So Many Things To Do

And so many more things to discover in Ballard;

Ballard Farmers Market — The Ballard Farmer’s Market on Sundays

National Nordic Heritage Museum opened in 2018 this remarkable museum is a must when visiting Ballard. Nordic roots run deep throughout the greater Pacific Northwest and this museum tells the story. It also is a remarkable work of architecture. Make this a priority.

Learn the Nordic history of the PNW at the National Nordic Heritage Museum

The Ballard Farmers Market a year ’round farmers market is nearly unheard of in the Pacific Northwest, but for the past 26 years the Ballard Farmers Market has been open every Sunday. It is a wonderful place for fresh produce, crafts and lunch as well as fun people watching. Don’t miss it.

The streets close every Sunday for the Ballard Farmers Market

Fresh and local at the Sunday Ballard Farmers Market

Bakke Coffee Museum a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum showcases the evolution of coffee culture through an impressive collection of espresso machines, grinders, and brewing artifacts. Walk-ins welcome Sundays from 12-4 or other days by appointment. See website for more.

Ballard Reuse is a treasure trove of constantly changing inventory of vintage and eclectic items for any use. Take a stroll and be insprired.

You never know what you will find at Ballard Reuse

Further Afield

As long as you are here definitely spend as much time as possible at any or all of these wonderful attractions only a few minutes from Ballard. Enjoy the Woodland Park Zoo, Funky Freemont and Green Lake just to name a few.

Woodland Park Zoo Lowland Gorilla — Woodland Park Zoo

Are You Convinced?

Have I convinced you that it’s time to rediscover Ballard Washington? I have spent a lot of time there over the last seven years, because my adult son calls it home. If he had never moved there, I would never have rediscovered Ballard myself…and I’m so glad I did. I still have a lot to see in Beautiful Ballard…so I’ll see you there.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Seattle

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington. Learn more about Ballard at Visit Ballard. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor.

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Reading Wednesday

Ninth Annual (and Final) Reading Round Up 2026

July 22, 2026

Laureen

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As you likely know if you have been following all these years, I track my reading year from July to July – why not be different from everyone else who tracks January to January? Nothing fancy, just keep a little tally in my notebook of all the books I read. This year I read 95 books, (eight more than last year) and the most I have ever read in one year. Due to my convalescing from total knee replacement, my book total is much higher than usual. Today I will share with you my favorites for the Ninth Annual (and Final) Reading Round Up 2026.

In case you didn’t know, I am retiring the My Fab Fifties Blog at the end of 2026. I will retire the Reading Wednesday blog post today...with this being the final book review post. Over the past nine years I have written just short of 500 book reviews and read just under 900 books. I will continue to talk about books on my Instagram page. So if you have enjoyed these weekly book reviews for NINE YEARS please join us on Instagram. Here is the link.

Over the past year I have written 53 book reviews, pulling into reviews my favorites of the 95 books. Most of my reading is done on my Kindle while traveling, and hardback and paperback when I am home in the summer. There is always an Audible going when I am in the car too. I like Audible for car trips, a great way to be entertained on the road. I also found Audible very soothing right after my surgery when my focus wasn’t up to par.

So as in the past several years, I’m sharing my most favorites from July ’25 to July ’26. Some outstanding novels, biographies, historical non-fiction, and memoirs. In past years I have shared a number one of the year. But this year, I just cant do it. I read so many impressive books this year, I just can’t chose. So for this final Reading Roundup I share my TOP FIVE (in order) and FIFTEEN more I highly recommend. So here we go, my Ninth Annual (And Final) Reading Round Up 2026;

TOP FIVE

The River is Waiting

This book. Wow. I listened to this book and it truly blew me away. This is my first read by Wally Lamb, and he is brilliant. I haven’t read a book in a REALLY long time that gave me such a visceral reaction. Let me be honest with you. If you can get through the first chapter of this book, you will be rewarded with a rich, deep and heartbreaking personal story. Lamb has created a hero for our time in Corbin Ledbetter. I can’t stop thinking about this book, or this character. A sure sign of an exceptional read.

The Calamity Club

Both funny and sad The Calamity Club takes a deep dive into Mississippi and the south in the 1930’s. The novel touches on homosexuality, promiscuity, orphanages, infidelity, race and the southern hierarchy of wealth and poverty. But mostly this book is about a women’s drive to survive. Women’s health, still today, is poorly studied or properly diagnosed and in 1933 Mississippi it was downright appalling.

John of John

The narrative in this book, so beautifully written, is above all else, about truth. A deep thread running through the novel is how difficult it can be, particularly in a small cutoff place, to become who you were meant to be. On this barren island old ways die hard. Religion is rigid. One of the last places where Gaelic is spoken and subsistence farming continues. How to be true to yourself when life is expected to only be a one certain way?

Mad Mabel

What happens when Australia’s youngest convicted murderer grows up to be a cantankerous old woman in a quiet Melbourne neighborhood? Hepworth’s wonderful novel is full of engaging characters and laugh out loud predicaments.

Theo of Golden

I was in a reading slump at the end of 2025, uninspired by nearly everything I tried to read. And then there was Theo. The feel good book of the year. The word heartfelt, though a bit cliché, is the best word to describe this beautiful story. I seriously found myself smiling through it…except for when I was sobbing. I have not read anything by Levi before, and this character driven novel is such a beautiful story.

AND FIFTEEN MORE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

So Far Gone by Jess Walters in a word REDEMPTION

Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall in a word SECRETS

Wild Dark Shores by Charlotte McConaghy in a word GRIPPING

My Friends Frederik Backman in a word HEARTBREAKING

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans in a word GRIEF

The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnet in a word HILARIOUS

Buckeye by Patrick Ryan in a word GRIEF

Heartwood by Amity Gaige in a word SURVIVAL

The Names by Florence Knapp in a word CHOICES

The Lincoln Moon by Michael Price Nelson in a word INFAMOUS

Life & Death & Giants by Ron Rindo in a word MIRACLES

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke in a word DISTURBING

The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter in a word OBSERVATIONS

The Elements by John Boyne in a word ABUSED

A Family Matter by Claire Lynch in a word SHAMEFUL

Reading Roundup

And with that, we wrap nine years and nearly 500 book reviews. It’s been a passion and a pleasure to write these book reviews (and travel posts). We will continue to write travel posts through January ’27, but here today the book reviews end.

Please follow us on Instagram, where we will have book recommendations in a shorter, video format regularly. Thank you for your continued support all these years. It has been my greatest joy to provide this service, talk about books, and build a love of reading amongst my followers. The world would be kinder, smarter, more tolerant, understanding and interesting, if everyone would turn off their television and read.

Yours,

Laureen

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor

July 17, 2026

Laureen

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I love this park. It truly is a hidden gem. I used to come here to eat my lunch alone when I was working. It was a quiet place I could breath away from the chaos. And I still come here. So if you need a quiet place to breath, let me tell you about this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor.

Bagel Sandwich on a beautiful day at Narrows Park

History

For years I referred to this park as Doc Weathers Park, although that was never the official name. But for some reason that was how I was introduced to it. The history of this park is really fascinating. Here is how it is described from the PenMet Parks website;

Narrows Park’s 36 acres include mature forest, and 1,315 feet of saltwater beach, and is the result of the combination of several parcels owned by several different families over the years.

In 1889, Section 33, including Narrows Park, was owned by W.S. Ladd. In 1915, the north portion of Narrows Park was owned by J.A. Hosher. In 1924, N.M. Lawson owned the southern portion after it served as part of a U.S. Military Reservation. In 1951, Doc Weathers owned a 36-acre parcel in the south portion, and built the main residence in 1961. He also owned several hundred surrounding acres including the site of the Tacoma Narrows Airport.

Doc Weathers’ wife, Lucille, inherited the 36-acre parcel in 1985 from his estate. Fred and Grace Gemmel inherited the property in 1992 from Lucille’s estate. In 1994, the Gemmels gifted the property to the Lutheran Church Foundation in St Louis, Missouri. The Trust for Public Land acquired the property from the Lutheran Church Foundation in 1996 in anticipation of selling it to Pierce County.

Pierce County acquired the property in 1996 for $2.5 million through the use of Pierce County Conservation Futures funds and a Washington State IAC (later RCO) federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. The road, parking, and viewing areas were developed in 2005 as a component of the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge construction.

Beautiful forest greets you as you decend to the park

In 2011, Pierce County transferred the property to the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District which now owns, operates, and maintains the park. Eagle Scout projects have added picnic tables and other amenities.

Still a Hidden Gem

Although each time I visit there are more people, it really is still a hidden gem. The park is a great place to have a picnic. I used to bring my Dad here for lunch when he was suffering from Alzheimer disease. It is easy access and he liked to look at the beautiful view of the Narrows Bridge.

It’s a great place to walk and beach comb at low tide. Photographers love it for the spectacular full view of the bridges as well as lots of bird life and marine traffic.

If you can brave the chilly water, it’s a great place to wade on a sunny day

Tacoma Narrows Bridges

When the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge was under construction I enjoyed my quiet getaways to this park to watch the bridge literally rise out of the water. This week marks 19 years since the opening of bridge number three. Although often referred to as the “new” bridge or the second bridge, the bridge is the third to span the narrows. Learn more Tacoma Narrows Bridge history here.

Bridge two (1950) and three (2007) side by side

Galloping Gertie” was the nickname given to the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Opening on July 1, 1940, it was the third-longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. Famous for swaying and twisting violently in the wind, the bridge collapsed on November 7, 1940.

The second Tacoma Narrows Bridge, which replaced the collapsed “Galloping Gertie”, officially opened to traffic on October 14, 1950

Following increased traffic congestion, a third, parallel suspension bridge was later built alongside it and opened on July 16, 2007. And Narrows Park is the best place to view it.

That’s me at the Grand Opening Celebration of the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge
July 16, 2007

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor

So I’ve let you in on my little secret. A small, quiet park with big beautiful views – Narrows Park in Gig Harbor. Another true Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor. Find the park here.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Quincy Square Bremerton.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

July 15, 2026

Laureen

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Note – this is the final Reading Wednesday book review in this format. Next week we will have our 2025-2026 Reading Roundup. After that, all Reading Wednesday book reviews will move to our Instagram account. Please follow us on Instagram.

Kathryn Stockett

It’s been sixteen years since Stockett’s wildly successful novel The Help came out. Readers have been waiting for her next work. Let me tell you, The Calamity Club was worth the wait. One of my favorite books of the year, and absolutely mesmerizing on Audible. Here is my book review The Calamity Club by Kahtryn Stockett.

Mississippi 1933

The depression is raging, money is tight and unemployment is high. But there is a class of women whose husbands or sons are handling the finances. These wealthy women have no idea how bad it is and it’s about to get worse.

Birdie and Frances

Birdie travels to Oxford Mississippi to find her sister Frances in hopes of getting a loan from her wealthy brother-in-law’s family. Birdie’s family will lose their house if the back taxes amounting to $250 are not paid.

Birdie finds her spoiled little sister living in wealth, but something seems off. It doesn’t take long for the pieces to fall into place. Frances husband Rory Tart has been hiding their real financial situation.

Meg

In a parallel timeline of the story we meet Meg, a feisty and smart eleven year old orphan, living in poor conditions at the Oxford Orphanage. Frances volunteers, so Birdie does too while she is in town. Birdie is horrified by the conditions Meg is forced to endure. There is something bitter with the Orphanage Chairwoman Garnett. She is mean and nasty and harboring a deep secret of her own.

Cat Call

Charlie arrives on the doorstep of Idyewild, the historic home of the Tart family. Charlie is in search of Meg. Disheveled and desperate, she asks Birdie to help her find her daughter.

When Rory disapears, Birdie convinces Frances and Mrs. Tart to go in search of him, while she and Charlie cook up a scheme to raise money and save all of them from ruin. An unlikely sisterhood is formed, defying all the strict social norms of the era, in a risky business scenario to save families, homes and human beings.

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

One of the best books this year, I adored all the characters (and there are a lot of characters) in this novel. Both funny and sad The Calamity Club takes a deep dive into Mississippi and the south in the 1930’s. The novel touches on homosexuality, promiscuity, orphanages, infidelity, race and the southern hierarchy of wealth and poverty. But mostly this book is about a women’s drive to survive. Women’s health, still today, is poorly studied or properly diagnosed and in 1933 Mississippi it was downright appalling.

*****Five stars for The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. One of my favorite books of the year.

See last week’s book review Strangers: A Memoire of Marriage by Belle Burden

COME BACK NEXT WEDNESDAY for our Ninth Annual (and final) Reading Roundup 2026. Our favorite reads of the past year.

Thank you for reading our Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. We greatly appreciate your pins, shares and comments.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

July 10, 2026

Laureen

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Quincy Square is a newly opened gathering space in the heart of downtown Bremerton, where I spent my childhood. Bremerton, like many downtown areas has struggled recently to stay viable. But Quincy Square is making a difference. Here is my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton.

Honoring the Legend Quincy Jones

Beautiful Mural honoring Quincy Jones and his music

Quincy Square was created to celebrate community, culture, and the legacy of legendary music producer and composer Quincy Jones. Located along 4th Street in the heart of Bremerton, the pedestrian-friendly plaza was designed as a cultural hub. Residents and visitors can gather for concerts, festivals, art displays, and community events. Jones spent part of his youth in Bremerton and often credits the city as the place where he discovered his passion for music. (Quincy Square)

Many interactive things to do for young and old alike

Challenges of Revitalization

The development of Quincy Square transformed a section of downtown into an inviting public space featuring a permanent bandstand, public art installations, interpretive displays, seating areas, and music-inspired design elements. Envisioned as a key component of Bremerton’s Creative District, providing a central location for cultural programming and helping to strengthen connections between local businesses, artists, and community organizations. Public artworks, including a bronze sculpture and murals honoring Quincy Jones and others, contribute to the square’s unique identity.

Historic Roxy Theater anchors Quincy Square

Events

Recently Bremerton did an outstanding job using the space to gather the community for the FIFA World Cup games. Quincy Square was home to the Kitsap Fan Zone, with an opening ceremony concert from Mike Herrara of MXPX, another locally raised musician. My family and I really enjoyed this event, the concert and the soccer on the giant screen. It was free, family friendly and fun to see how the community embraced it.

Mike Herrara performs at the World Cup Fan Zone opening event

The permanent stage features numerous events through the year

Enjoying a microbrew at Dog Days Brewing in Quincy Square

Community

By combining public art, music, and community engagement, Quincy Square has become a symbol of downtown Bremerton’s revitalization and a welcoming destination that celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage. The square honors numerous Black leaders from Bremerton, trailblazers for equality in the region. Quincy Square is about community both past and future and shines as an example of what can happen when people come together.

Honoring some of Bremerton’s legends and Black leaders

Learn more about events in downtown Bremerton here. Bremerton is located on the Kitsap Peninsula, a one hour ride on the Washington State Ferry from Seattle, or a 30 min ride on the Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry from Seattle. Thirty minutes from Tacoma via Hwy 16.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton. I hope you will visit soon. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Bainbridge Island.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

July 8, 2026

Laureen

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Every woman should read this book – a cautionary tale about financial independence and marriage. Here is my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden.

NOTE – At the end of July these book review posts will move from this blog to Instagram. Reading Wednesday will continue on most Wednesdays but on Instagram. Please follow our Instagram page here.

Betrayal

After twenty years of marriage, Belle’s husband suddenly admitted to an affair and announced he was leaving her. Belle was blindsided, having seen no red flags. She is left to manage during the pandemic their house and three children.

Strangers

Despite her initial despair and hopes that her husband would change his mind, Burden spends the next several years bouncing from depression to self reliance. She realizes this man she has spent twenty years with was a stranger to her, and his casual refusal to update their prenup should have been a red flag to her. Despite her wealthy upbringing, she has allowed all of her assets to be shared, even while allowing her husbands income to not. A long drawn out divorce takes a tremendous toll on her personal health, her family and even her friendships.

Her husband cuts off his relationship, claims he does not want shared custody and turns her life into a living hell during the divorce negotiations.

Cautionary Tale

I found the book to be well written and intriguing. Her story is believable, and a cautionary tale to women who cede all control of the family finances in marriage. Burden found herself not aware of the truth of the financial situation or prepared for the her precarious situation.

Some people have criticized this author because of her families wealth, but I found her truth and honesty of the demise of her marriage both fascinating, educational and heartbreaking.

****Four stars for Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

Thank you for reading my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. See last week’s book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

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Island Life -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

See It Again or For the First Time

July 3, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Bainbridge Island Washington USA

A thirty-minute ferry ride from Seattle, or a thirty-minute drive from Bremerton, Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is a bit of a secret. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island.

Note – this article was updated in July 2026

Home to 25,000 full-time residents, the island is one of several that call the Puget Sound home, and is one of the most populated. Only ten miles long and five miles wide, Bainbridge is connected to the Kitsap Peninsula by a bridge over Agate Pass and to Seattle and King County by Washington State Ferry.

History of Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington

For thousands of years the island was home to the Suquamish people who lived in nine separate villages around the island. The Vancouver expedition visited the island in 1792 and the Wilkes expedition in 1841. It was Wilkes who named the island after Commodore William Bainbridge.

In 1855 the Suquamish relinquished their claim to the island to the US government in exchange for reservation and fishing rights at Port Madison.

Japanese immigrants made their way to the island starting in 1888 and began much of the agriculture of the island, some of which remains today. But the Japanese were removed to internment camps during WWII…many never returned. A very beautiful Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is located just outside of the town of Winslow.

In 1991 the entire island was named the City of Bainbridge Island.

A Perfect Day Trip

Spending more than one day on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington would be amazing, but if you only can get here for a day trip there is plenty you can do. We offer up some suggestions below. If you are walking from the ferry the village of Winslow has much to offer. And if you have a car there is even more to see and do further afield. Here are our suggestions:

Close to the Ferry

Marina and Ferry Terminal with Seattle Skyline in the distance

If you are driving, parking is usually available either on the main street called Winslow Way or on one of the side streets. But if you are walking from the ferry it’s a short five minute walk to the area known as Winslow.

SHOPPING

The Winslow area offers a wonderful variety of shops and restaurants including clothing and outdoor wear, jewelry and decorative finds, wine and tea and more. Two of my favorite shops are the incomparable Eagle Harbor Books and Town & Country Market. On my most recent trip I discovered Bainbridge Apothecary and Tea Shop and Danger a fabulous little gift shop.. I loved it!

DINING

You will never go hungry on Bainbridge Island. So many wonderful places to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We recently tried two new restaurants on Bainbridge, Sweetwater Tavern (in the former location of Marche) and Proper Fish for their outstanding fish and chips. We also love Cafe Hitchcock. Streamliner Diner is great for breakfast, Blackbird Bakery has the best lemon blueberry scones and San Carlos is one of the best Mexican/Southwest Restaurants in the state of Washington.

WATERFRONT TRAIL

It’s not a long walk but the Bainbridge Waterfront Trail is a beautiful walk along both a paved path and a raised boardwalk. Definitely worth a few minutes of your time to enjoy the wind and salt in your hair, the thousands of masts and to hear the horn of the ferry in the distance.

MUSEUMS

The Bainbridge Historical Museum is worth a visit to learn the fascinating history of the island and it’s people. Learn more about it here.

We were extremely surprised and impressed with the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. What a revelation to find such an outstanding museum in this small town. And it was FREE!! We spent about an hour here, enjoying both the permanent and temporary exhibits as well as marveling at the beautiful architecture of the building. A must visit when on the island. Learn more here.

Further Afield

Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is home to many, many parks including the beautiful Fay Bainbridge waterfront park and camp ground. See a full list of parks here. With a vehicle we also recommend;

JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION MEMORIAL – mentioned above

GRAND FOREST PARK – an astonishing variety of trails offered in this park located in the forested interior of the island. A beautiful spot.

BLOEDEL RESERVE – not to be missed. This 150 acre reserve is located on the historic property of Virginia and Prentice Bloedel. Today the spectacular gardens are astonishing to say the least and open to the public by tickets available online. Adults $20. Worth every penny.

Bloedel Reserve

LYNNWOOD CENTER – is a small neighborhood village with a handful of shops and restaurant worth a drive to enjoy. We recommend The Treehouse Cafe.

BAINBRIDGE BREWING – always in search of microbrew, we found it on Bainbridge. Bainbridge Brewing has it’s brewing headquarters and a tasting room on the interior of island and also has a tasting room in Winslow.

PIA THE PEACEKEEPER – one of several Thomas Dambo trolls in the Pacific Northwest (see the full list here) Is a darling 18 foot tall troll easily accessible and definitely worth a visit.

FAYE BAINBRIDGE PARK – spectacular views with picnic, camping and walking trails this is a not to miss park on the island.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

Worth a day or a weekend, beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington will sooth your senses – forest bathe in the green forests, inhale the salty air from the multiple waterfront locations, relax. Experience a friendly neighborhood island of socially active residents who make nature, art and sustainability a priority on their island. Take it down a notch on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington. I’ll see you there.

See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail here.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Bainbridge Island.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review John of John by Douglas Stuart

July 1, 2026

Laureen

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I listened to this novel on Audible and it was absolutely poetic. One of my favorite books of the year. Here is my book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

Remote Isle of Harris, Scotland

After finishing Art School, Cal returns home to the barren croft where he was raised by his father. This is the last place Cal wants to be, a dying and hopeless island stuck in time. Cal has hidden his sexuality from his father, a leader in the Presbyterian Church, sheep farmer and weaver. The two cannot see eye to eye on much particularly as Cal explores his individuality.

Living with his father and outspoken grandmother in his tiny childhood home, Cal feels as stuck as everyone else as this fragile community, it’s old ways and traditions, disintegrates.

Truth

Cal and his father clash over most things. But Cal has returned to the island because his father has told him his grandmother is ill. But on arrival he finds his grandmother in fine health. And so he begins to unravel the real reasons he has been called home. The truth.

Emotional

The prose of this novel are emotional and suspenseful and full of secrets. It is a story of family, hard work, religion and the truth of hiding from your true sexuality. John of John has vividly written characters and scenery and this book played out like a movie in my head. It is one of the most beautifully written books I have read in years. I have read Stuart’s Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo, but this one is hands down my favorite. It damn well better win the Booker.

Thank you for reading my book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

*****Five stars for John of John by Douglas Stuart.

See last week’s book review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. We are always grateful for your likes, comments, pins and shares. Thank you.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail

June 26, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Pierce County Washington USA

The incredible 22 mile Foothills Trail is a Pierce County secret and one of my favorite hidden gems. Cyclists, walkers, runners, and people of all ages enjoy this beautiful paved trail in South Pierce County. Let’s talk about Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail.

The new bridge connecting South Prairie to Buckley and Enumclaw

History

In the late 1800’s the Northern Pacific Railway laid the first tracks to access rich coal and sandstone resources at the base of the Cascades. This corridor was critical to early settlement and connecting Tacoma to Ellensburg. In 1982 Burlington Northern abandoned the tracks and shortly thereafter the Foothills Trail Coalition was formed by local citizens.

Pierce County formerly adopted the trail project in 1990 and has continued to make improvements to the trail that begins in Puyallup. Until 2024 the trail ended at South Prairie. But in 2024 the Buckley Bridge was completed connecting the Pierce County trail to Enumclaw in King County.

One of My Favorite Paved Trails

For many years this trail was a favorite of mine as a cyclist. It is well maintained, has multiple parking and restroom facilities throughout the 22 miles, and has stunning nature and Mount Rainier views. You will see birds, and other wildlife as well as wildflowers and forests. Although I am currently not cycling, the Foothills Trail is also a great place to run, walk your dog, stroll with the family or just picnic along the Carbon River. Walkers should consider parking in Orting (check out their Saturday Farmers Market) where the Rainier views are the best. About a one mile walk from the Orting Railroad Depot you will come to the beautiful raging Carbon River.

The Foothills Trail is a 12-foot wide non-motorized asphalt trail / linear park suitable for bicycles, walking, in-line skates, and wheelchairs. It also has a soft shoulder path for equestrians.

The view of Mount Rainier from the Puyallup end of the trail

Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail

There are plans to continue the trail east from Enumclaw. Additional plans will hopefully come to fruition to continue the trail from Puyallup to connect with the Interurban Trail in Auburn and Kent. This could create a wonderful cycling corridor for commuters in the future. A perfect fit for the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Thank you or reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater. We are always grateful for your shares and pins and comments. Thank you.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

June 24, 2026

Laureen

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A Quiet Suburban Life

After a lifetime of misfortune, abuse, bad luck and misunderstanding, Elise is settled in to her quiet Melbourne neighborhood. She likes most of her neighbors, except the pesky 7 year old Persephone and her next door neighbor Ishaan and his annoying dog Nugget. She keeps to herself except for her one friend and only friend Daphne.

More Bad Luck

But when Ishaan turns up dead, and the police start to dig, Elise’s true identity gets out. She once again finds herself a suspect in a murder. Because Elise is actually Mabel Waller – Mad Mabel, Australia’s youngest convicted killer.

The story and the characters in the neighborhood are full of both funny and sad events. Elise (Mabel) agrees to tell her story to some young vloggers, and through the telling we learn the astonishing details of Mabel’s life. An abusive narcissistic father, school bullies, a teacher-sexual abuser and a life of loneliness, Mabel has a surprising story to tell.

And through it all she learns to love the inquisitive 7 year old Persephone, Nugget the dog and see her neighbors for the kind and supportive people they are. Some of the relationships she has with characters in the novel will surprise the reader, as we learn the depth of Mabel’s loneliness and regret.

Book Review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

This was one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. Despite much of it’s sad content, it made me feel happy and hopeful for humanity.

*****Five stars for Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. See last week’s book review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. Thank you for reading my book review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. We are grateful for your comments, pins and shares.

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